Albariño 101 Items

Albariño has enjoyed a surge in popularity over the last couple of decades. This grape claims dual citizenship of both Spain (in the Rías Baixas region) and Portugal, where it is widely planted in the northwest and is known as Alvarinho. In recent years, plantings have increased throughout California.

Tasting Notes for Albariño

Albariño is a dry, white wine with a complex aroma profile often including orange blossom, freshly cut grass, jasmine or geranium. Bursting with rich, ripe flavor, Albariño can show flavors of lime, pear, melon and white peach. The best examples boast zingy acidity and while typically fermented in stainless steel to preserve this purity, oak-aged examples can provide a weighty yet refreshing alternative to Chardonnay.

Perfect Food Pairings for Albariño

Albariño loves seafood, and can be paired with a variety of marine delicacies. Its distinctive waxy texture and lemony acidity make it perfect with fresh sardines, oysters, octopus or squid.

Sommelier Secrets for Albariño

Albariño is considered an aromatic variety, and actually shares characteristics with Viognier, Riesling, Gewürztraminer and Muscat. If you enjoy these elegantly perfumed whites, chances are you’ll love Albariño.